Community Accomplishments

  1. Founder of the Natural Areas Volunteer Program (1989):

    • Instrumental in establishing a model program for the Park District of Highland Park, logging over 2,000 volunteer hours annually to support ecological restoration, beekeeping, and adult education programs.

    • A former Heller Nature Center manager noted, “Steve’s passion for our work is undying. He always strives to make new connections, between people and ideas, that will make the world a better place.”

  2. Environmental Education Advocate:

    • Created opportunities for children from underserved communities, including a memorable field trip for Amani House participants.

    • “I truly believe you made a long-lasting, positive impact on these kids—many of them have never had an adult treat them with respect and treat them as intelligent, capable people.” – Pamela Brookstein, Amani House

  3. Leader in Ecological Restoration and Community Engagement:

    • Spearheaded restoration projects at Heller Nature Center and other Highland Park sites, including Sleepy Hollow, Danny Cunniff, Larry Fink and Millard Parks.

    • Coordinated annual Chicago River Day cleanups since 2003, engaging hundreds of residents to preserve the Skokie River ecosystem.

  4. International Environmental Collaboration and Leadership:

    • Shared Highland Park’s environmental programs with Ukrainian scientists and ecologists through a U.S. State Department’s Community Connections program, facilitated by the International Visitors Center of Chicago (IVCC).

    • “Participants praised the program for expanding their understanding of ecological practices and fostering opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing.”

    • “Our visitors will apply many new ideas and practical concepts to their ecological organizations in Ukraine, making significant changes in environmental awareness.” – Dan Stephenson, Director, Educational Exchange Program, IVCC

  5. Advocate for Sustainable Practices:

    • Served as Commissioner of the East Skokie Drainage District (1999–2005), initiating a streambank restoration, flood control project in Highland Park, balancing ecological sensitivity with sound management practice.

  6. Author and Educator:

    • Published Fire and Ice for a Local Planet, a photo journal documenting ecological restoration at Heller Nature Center, described as “a nudge to get more people involved in ecological preservation.” – Patch Portraits, 2011